Irish Mortgage Lending Limits 2026: How Much Can You Borrow?
Last updated: 2 June 2026
The Central Bank of Ireland sets mortgage lending rules that cap how much banks and lenders can advance relative to a borrower's income (LTI) and the value of the property (LTV). These rules apply to all regulated lenders in Ireland and are updated periodically. The current rules were reviewed in 2023 and remain in effect for 2026.
Loan-to-Income (LTI) Limits
| Buyer Type | LTI Limit | Example (€80,000 income) |
|---|---|---|
| First-time buyer (FTB) | 4× gross income | Max €320,000 |
| Non-first-time buyer | 3.5× gross income | Max €280,000 |
| Buy-to-let | Not applicable (LTV-only rule) | — |
Loan-to-Value (LTV) Limits
| Property Type / Buyer | Max LTV | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| First-time buyer (primary home) | 90% | 10% of purchase price |
| Non-first-time buyer (primary home) | 80% | 20% of purchase price |
| Buy-to-let | 70% | 30% of purchase price |
Exception Allowances
Lenders may exceed LTI limits in a limited number of cases each year — up to 15% of new first-time buyer lending can exceed the 4× limit. This is at the lender's discretion and not guaranteed. Contact your lender directly if you believe you qualify for an exception.
Stressed Rate Testing
In addition to Central Bank caps, lenders are required to stress-test borrowers at a higher interest rate than the current mortgage rate (typically 2% above the offered rate) to confirm affordability if rates rise. This may result in a lower approval even when LTI and LTV rules are met.
Calculate Your Repayment
Once you know your maximum borrowing amount, use our mortgage repayment calculator to estimate monthly payments, total interest, and total repayment for any principal and rate combination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much can I borrow for a mortgage in Ireland?
- Under Central Bank rules, first-time buyers can borrow up to 4x gross annual income (LTI limit). Non-first-time buyers are limited to 3.5x income. Lenders may apply a further LTV limit (90% for FTBs, 80% for non-FTBs).
- What is the LTI limit in Ireland?
- The loan-to-income (LTI) limit is 4x gross annual income for first-time buyers and 3.5x for non-first-time buyers, set by the Central Bank of Ireland.
- Can lenders exceed Central Bank mortgage limits?
- Yes, in limited cases. Lenders have exception allowances (typically 15% of new lending in a year for FTBs) where they can lend beyond LTI limits. These are at the lender's discretion.
- Does the Central Bank limit apply to buy-to-let mortgages?
- Yes, buy-to-let mortgages are subject to an LTV limit of 70% under Central Bank rules.